Diverse Voices brought together place professionals from across Greater Manchester for an interactive presentation coaching session focused on confidence, communication and storytelling. Arup kindly hosted participants for the workshop, followed by an enlightening mix of Speaker showcase presentations; topics include The aquarium theory of Place, wildfire risk awareness, clothing poverty and switching off from work life.
Through practical coaching, reflective discussion and shared learning, attendees explored the many different settings in which they present ideas; interviews to meetings, to community conversations and everyday professional interactions, participants deliberated how best to navigate presenting in each of these spaces.
Facilitated by Susie Cuthill – Head of Networks, the event invited participants to rethink how they approach presenting, shifting the focus from performance to purpose and authenticity.
A key part of the session was the Speaker showcase, which provided a supportive space for participants to practise 3 minute, 3 slide short presentations on a topic of their choice and receive constructive peer feedback. This element of the workshop allows participants to experiment with an idea, practice their skills and learn from diverse styles and experiences.
Key reflections from the session:
- Confidence grows through practice and preparation rather than being a fixed personal trait
- Understanding personal purpose can help reduce nerves and strengthen conviction when sharing ideas
- Different communication styles can be equally effective, confidence doesn’t have to look or sound one way
- Supportive environments enable people to learn from one another and build confidence together
Speaker showcase:
“If culture is the water we swim in, is place the fishtank”
by Annie Jackson – Development Surveyor, Salford City Council. LinkedIn
“Clothing Poverty: an issue affecting GM?”
by Natasha Bernard – Project Officer – Build Salford, Salford City Council. LinkedIn
“Wildfire Risk Awareness”
by Daisy Irwin – MSc Disaster Management and Sustainable Development Graduate. LinkedIn
“Switching off from work life”
by George Ruffley – Land & Planning Assistant, Kellen Homes. LinkedIn
The session reflected the core aim of Diverse Voices: creating inclusive spaces where people can build confidence, amplify their voices and learn from a diversity of perspectives across Greater Manchester.
Thanks to Muse for sponsoring Diverse Voices events & to Arup for hosting this brilliant group once again. If you’d like to get involved in the next speaker showcase contact the team for details!
